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Buddhism for Mothers of Young Children: Becoming a Mindful Parent
From the author of the acclaimed Buddhism for Mothers , a guide to discovering the path to meaningful, spiritual, and satisfying motherhood
A combination of personal narrative and stories gathered from mothers, this guide shows how spiritual and mindful parenting can help all mothers—Buddhists and non-Buddhists—be more open, attentive, and content. By guiding mothers on a spiritual path, this evocation also helps them cultivate wisdom, open-heartedness, and a better understanding of themselves and their children. The Buddhist teachings and principles help answer questions that all mothers face, especially those with young Who are my children? Who am I? How can I do my best by my children and myself? What to do about all that housework? and Is this all? Written in a clear and engaging style, this warm and simple meditation facilitates parenting with awareness, purpose, and love.
A combination of personal narrative and stories gathered from mothers, this guide shows how spiritual and mindful parenting can help all mothers—Buddhists and non-Buddhists—be more open, attentive, and content. By guiding mothers on a spiritual path, this evocation also helps them cultivate wisdom, open-heartedness, and a better understanding of themselves and their children. The Buddhist teachings and principles help answer questions that all mothers face, especially those with young Who are my children? Who am I? How can I do my best by my children and myself? What to do about all that housework? and Is this all? Written in a clear and engaging style, this warm and simple meditation facilitates parenting with awareness, purpose, and love.
258 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2007
90 people are currently reading
983 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Napthali
17 books68 followersSarah Napthali is a mother of two young boys who tries to apply Buddhist teachings in her daily life. Her working life has ranged from teaching English as a Second Language and corporate training, to human rights activism and interpreting. Since becoming a mother she has focussed on writing, initially for companies and later for individuals wanting to record their memoirs. With seven memoirs completed, she is also the author of Buddhism for Mothers (Allen & Unwin, 2003) which has sold 54,000 copies around the world and been translated into eight languages to date. Since the children started school, Sarah is very pleased to report that she manages to meditate daily.
from http://www.allenandunwin.com/default....
from http://www.allenandunwin.com/default....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
March 27, 2011
Almost as good as Buddhism for Mothers. This one was weighty and though, I loved it, found she struggled to keep the focus on the true purpose of the book. There was so much in this book, deep, important things to think about as both a mother and woman. I think I'll need to sit with it and then read it again to truly digest what she had to say.
January 31, 2022
Great great book even for myself who is not a parent. Provides perspective and insight to a mothers heart and is a practical guide to growth for humans. Loved her writing!
June 6, 2011
Wonderfully down to earth and practical advice on motherhood and a clear introduction to Buddhism. The author draws from Theraveda, Zen and Tibetan schools and lightly sketches an overview of non-self, dukkha and karma among others.
I turn to this kind of book when I'm feeling particularly strung out and/or confused, and it certainly has helped me more than any other 'parenting' book I've found. The approach, ideas and advice are a good way of acknowledging some of the difficulties of mothering and how to deal with them with equanimity. Even if I've not explained the Buddhist aspect of the book very well, the bottom line is this book has stopped me going mental at least a few times.
I turn to this kind of book when I'm feeling particularly strung out and/or confused, and it certainly has helped me more than any other 'parenting' book I've found. The approach, ideas and advice are a good way of acknowledging some of the difficulties of mothering and how to deal with them with equanimity. Even if I've not explained the Buddhist aspect of the book very well, the bottom line is this book has stopped me going mental at least a few times.
June 4, 2014
Absolutely love this book! Really, really helpful in a practical way as well as a great introduction to Buddhist practice. Leaves me wanting more of the same, but will save Buddhism for Mothers of Schoolchildren until I am one, and instead begin working through my list of Napthali's recommended authors :)
April 1, 2012
This is another great book by Sarah Napthali that still somehow manages to provide additional wisdom for having a Buddhist perspective as a mom. Reading this book is akin to taking a calm pill. When I've turned to this book after a tough day, everything feels a thousand times better!
November 30, 2025
I enjoyed this book and found it helpful, hence the 5 star review, but I am going to share some things I noticed while reading that may also be of interest to people who are considering picking up this book:
1. There is a lot of homogeneity in the families and family structures used as examples. They are all women with multiple children, married to men, and (I think) stay-at-home moms. At times, I felt a little alienated by how things are consistently framed from the point of view of a stay-at-home mother. Related to this, some of the book's discussions of family dynamics feel quite dated. The book was written in 2007 so I guess I'm just appreciating how much has changed even in that relatively short time. (Cool that the Buddhist teachings are as relevant as ever, though!)
2. The title is ".... for Mothers of Young Children"and it is very clearly angled toward mothers to the exclusion of fathers, in most discussions. This isn't a complaint about the content-- its focus is accurately stated-- but I repeatedly found myself wondering whether there are fathers of young children out there looking to become more mindful parents? Is there a book telling them to accept every frustrating situation as an opportunity to practice a Buddhist mindset? Are any fathers contemplating how children bring about a profound loss of self and trying to sell that to themselves as personal growth?
3. Don't read this book expecting it to address any type of family beyond a heterosexual one. I do not mean this as a criticism. It was written in 2007 and the author is speaking about her own experiences and the experiences of the very similar women she knows. I think the book has the potential to be meaningful and interesting to people in all types of family structures, but it may help to begin knowing that this book does not go out of its way to be inclusive. If it were written in 2025, I think it likely would.
1. There is a lot of homogeneity in the families and family structures used as examples. They are all women with multiple children, married to men, and (I think) stay-at-home moms. At times, I felt a little alienated by how things are consistently framed from the point of view of a stay-at-home mother. Related to this, some of the book's discussions of family dynamics feel quite dated. The book was written in 2007 so I guess I'm just appreciating how much has changed even in that relatively short time. (Cool that the Buddhist teachings are as relevant as ever, though!)
2. The title is ".... for Mothers of Young Children"and it is very clearly angled toward mothers to the exclusion of fathers, in most discussions. This isn't a complaint about the content-- its focus is accurately stated-- but I repeatedly found myself wondering whether there are fathers of young children out there looking to become more mindful parents? Is there a book telling them to accept every frustrating situation as an opportunity to practice a Buddhist mindset? Are any fathers contemplating how children bring about a profound loss of self and trying to sell that to themselves as personal growth?
3. Don't read this book expecting it to address any type of family beyond a heterosexual one. I do not mean this as a criticism. It was written in 2007 and the author is speaking about her own experiences and the experiences of the very similar women she knows. I think the book has the potential to be meaningful and interesting to people in all types of family structures, but it may help to begin knowing that this book does not go out of its way to be inclusive. If it were written in 2025, I think it likely would.
July 5, 2019
Wonderful book
I am not a buddhist, but I am a mother of 2. This book won't change the way I parent but it has had a massive impact on my enjoyment of parenting. I feel happier and more accepting of my self and my children in a life changing way. This book has given me several moments of deep insight in to how my expectations and my way of thinking about certain situations has caused me unnecessary unhappiness. I aim to be more accepting of 'now' This book is very accessible, not at all preachy, warm, and compasionate. I am looking forward to finding out more about Buddhism as I found some of the teachings mentioned very helpful.
I am not a buddhist, but I am a mother of 2. This book won't change the way I parent but it has had a massive impact on my enjoyment of parenting. I feel happier and more accepting of my self and my children in a life changing way. This book has given me several moments of deep insight in to how my expectations and my way of thinking about certain situations has caused me unnecessary unhappiness. I aim to be more accepting of 'now' This book is very accessible, not at all preachy, warm, and compasionate. I am looking forward to finding out more about Buddhism as I found some of the teachings mentioned very helpful.
June 26, 2019
This book has been read like a guide book. I have picked it up as a saving grace when I have felt I needed the guidance it offers and if offers much and then put it down for a month or more. It’s taken me years to read because of the intuitive way I have chosen to read it, but it has always offered me the best passage of reading I needed in any given moment and I couldn’t recommend it highly enough. Thank you Sarah ❤️ I give it 10 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 13, 2021
I'm going to be honest, I didn't enjoy it. But that doesn't mean someone else might not. I find buddhism in the face of motherhood, a period of life and a state of being that slowly effaces a woman's identity anyway, problematic. While some of her ideas are helpful, like that each stage of parenting (especially the difficult ones) are impermanent, others are less so. I also thought the writing was didactic and hard to read. I hope other readers get more out of it than I did.
April 12, 2021
‘The sheer logic of Buddhist practice will always bring me home: I may as well show up for my life in the present moment rather than drift off in thoughts of the past and future; I may as well cultivate compassion for everyone I meet rather than surrender to pettiness or anger; I will be happier with a heart that is open and loving than one contracted and exclusive.’
February 17, 2018
Offers very useful meditations for this time of my life, raising a toddler.
April 3, 2020
Such a calming and reassuring read
May 25, 2020
Many folded pages throughout, beautiful advice that helped during an overwhelming stage of motherhood.
June 28, 2022
I liked this and found it helpful, lost a star for repetition
July 7, 2022
Recommend it to everyone!
January 5, 2014
What an excellent book for Mothers of toddlers & pre-school children. I truly enjoyed this follow-up to Sarah Napthali's first book, Buddhism for Mothers. Not only was it well written and easy-to-read (which is absolutely essential when you're constantly interrupted by the needs of a young Bub/toddler) but Sarah also included lots of invaluable resources like the mention of Nonviolent Communication, Zen Writing, Zen Drawing and various practical ways to incorporate mindfulness in a busy parent's day.
I found the journal insights into other Mothers' experiences & reflections really supportive, as so often I've gone through similar experiences myself. It was heartening to read that other Buddhist Mothers have similar struggles and came out the other side. Actually, there are so many useful tidbits in this book that I truly think it has something to offer everyone. Very glad I set aside the time to read this.
I found the journal insights into other Mothers' experiences & reflections really supportive, as so often I've gone through similar experiences myself. It was heartening to read that other Buddhist Mothers have similar struggles and came out the other side. Actually, there are so many useful tidbits in this book that I truly think it has something to offer everyone. Very glad I set aside the time to read this.
July 8, 2014
I try not to read too many parenting books (trusting one's instincts is the only legitimate advice) but I couldn't resist this one and I'm glad I gave it a chance. This, along with Lawrence Cohen's "Playful Parenting," have helped make the last few months with my children the best months we've experienced together, and I can feel myself growing as a mother in ways that feel long-lasting. I am learning from the techniques I gleaned from this book to become more observant of my thoughts, to turn frustration with disciplinary issues/housekeeping/etc. into a 'practice,' and to make the most of the present moment by recognizing the ephemerality of childhood. One needn't be Buddhist or know anything about Buddhism to benefit from this helpful and compassionate little book, but even Buddhists will appreciate the author's approach, which incorporates tenets of Zazen, Theravada and Tibetan Buddhism.
January 9, 2015
So this is not a book I would have picked up on my own, for two reasons: first, not being Buddhist, this was not on my radar, and second, I try only to read parenting books by practicing clinical child psychologists. But I am glad I read this book, it was less a book about parenting and more about self care. I found so many of the Buddhist principles reflected a great deal of Christian teaching and for once have a practical understanding of dying to oneself and capturing each thought. I also for the first time in years have felt moved to actually pray. I am curious to learn more about meditation as just reading about meditation has made me feel more peaceful. Don't overlook this book just because it has Buddhism in the title.
January 16, 2012
I have two boys, the oldest is just turning 6, and both this, and Sarah's original Buddhism for Mothers have completely saved me countless times during the mayhem of mothering. After the birth of my second child, this second delicious serve of parenting comfort, humour, reassurance, and LIGHT on the journey of parenting absolutely renewed my love for being a Mum. A brilliant read for Dads too. As soon as I know anyone's about to have a new bub, I rush to get them copies if both Sarah's books. Life changing, a golden little gem.
August 6, 2012
Beautiful book that makes you refocus and think hard about what parenting is and is all about. As a Christian reading this book I was unimpressed by the little digs at Christianity (which also seemed to come from a naive understanding of what the faith is) but overall I loved this book. It re-energized me, challenged me, and made me really think about what type of parent I am and want to be...and can become. A very nice reminder that this is all so fleeting and goes by so fast that we need to make the most of it and not wallow in the negativity and challenges. You are what you think.
January 31, 2013
Very refreshing, very calming perspective on parenting. I highlighted so many passages that spoke to me, items that I want to reread and refer back to. I am not a Buddhist, but heard/read good things about this book and I'm glad I gave it a go. So much of it made sense, not just in a parenting sense, but in other aspects of life as well: to try to live in the present moment, to accept yourself and others as they are, to relinquish control. Very thought-provoking and reassuring.
March 3, 2014
Great to read a book with the specific audience of mothers (ie caregivers who don't have a lot of time for themselves and have lots of opportunity to become frustrated at the needs of others) about mindfulness and Buddhism. She presents the ways Buddhism can help in a way that doesn't seem unmanageable, time wise or emotionally. She presents the benefits, and other mothers experiences.
A good read.
A good read.
June 12, 2015
I enjoyed the thoughts on mindfulness and emphasis it through the lens of parenthood. I felt that quite a bit of the book assumed some of the mother stereotypes (SAHM, lazy/incompetent husband, crazy kids) which I didn't appreciate and thought detracted from the overall message. The core ideas are great though, especially for those interested in Buddhism in a practical application of daily life. Good for fathers or mothers.
February 24, 2015
My husband went overseas for a while when I was struggling with young children, sleepless etc. Before he left we wrote a list of strategies that I could refer too if I started feeling overwhelmed. Reading Buddhism for mothers - just a little each day - was the first strategy. It was like my Bible! Sarah has written a tonic for the mother's soul with this book. And this second book in the series is my favorite.
December 28, 2015
I loved this one as much as I loved her first book. I instantly felt calmer whenever I sat down to read it. The tenants of Buddhism make sense to me, and go so well with the Yoga and Meditation I've been focusing on this year. Parenting gives us SO many opportunities to practice these skills. Beginner's mind, being in the present moment and so much more. Definitely recommend, no matter your religious preferences.
April 12, 2016
I thought the author did really well explaining Buddhism and applying it to parenting. The book didn't teach me anything new; however, its language helped me find better ways to apply the principles within parenting that are important to me (particularly patience and compassion). You don't have to be Buddhist, or trying to become Buddhist, to get things out of this book. I liked its perspective. I found it easy to read. And I enjoyed reading it.
November 2, 2016
In each of the 10 chapters author Sarah Napthali applies mindfulness practices to everyday lives. Interwoven in the text are the real life struggles she has faced with her own children. Each chapter ends with a short list of things you can do. Some takeaways for me: staying present with my children, thankfulness, and ultimately letting go of what I can't control.
February 2, 2012
I really liked this book. It helped me remember that I need to be in the moment with my kids and to enjoy the small things! I also laughed and enjoyed the stories of other moms who are in the same situation as me. It is not easy being a mom (especially a stay-at-home mom) and I needed this vote of encouragement. I really recommend it for those moms out there with little children!
January 15, 2013
A helpful and soothing reminder to slow down and focus on what's important during the hectic early days of motherhood, but not much here in the way of original thinking. She uses A LOT of quotes from other people/writers, and personal anecdotes. Might be a good introduction to the likes of Thich Naht Hahn and other authors if you haven't read much about Buddhism.
November 26, 2016
I can't say enough good things about this book! This book truly helped me to slow down and become more aware of what is occurring in my life. There are so many good pieces of this book and I read it during the most perfect time for me, as I was questioning different aspects of raising my daughter. LOVED it!!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews